"The best possible team you could have on your side! The trial knowledge, the expertise, the professionalism, relate to you on your level with respect! This firm truly cares. I wouldn't trust any other attys! They are top notch and I highly recommend them! THANK YOU MR. CHASTANG FOR YOUR COMMITMENT AND HONESTY ABOUT REPRESENTATION.
Theft Defense Attorney Serving Bartow, Lakeland, and Central Florida
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Lakeland Theft Defense Lawyer - Criminal Law
Experienced Theft Defense attorney providing Petit Theft and Grand Theft Criminal Law Legal Services in Bartow, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Haines City, Polk County, and the greater Central Florida area.
Call 863-354-0508 today to schedule a Free Consultation with theft defense lawyer, Robert A. Norgard.
Facing a theft charge in Bartow, Lakeland, or anywhere in Central Florida can lead to devastating, lifelong consequences. In Florida, a theft conviction is classified as a crime of dishonesty. This label can follow you forever, appearing on every background check and creating a permanent barrier to employment, housing, and professional licensing.
Beyond the social stigma, Florida prosecutors aggressively pursue theft convictions, often seeking jail or prison time even for first-time offenders. You need a formidable defense strategy designed to protect your reputation and your freedom. Attorney Robert A. Norgard provides the experienced theft defense services necessary to anticipate the State's strategy and build the strongest possible case for you.
The difference between a misdemeanor and a life-altering felony may often hinge on technicalities that only a seasoned trial lawyer can navigate. Hiring an experienced defense attorney is critical because we can:
- Challenge Criminal Intent: Theft in Florida is a "specific intent" crime. We can argue that your actions lacked the required intent to permanently or temporarily deprive the owner of their property.
- Contest Property Valuation: The jump from a misdemeanor to a felony is often based on the monetary value of the property. We scrutinize the State's valuation evidence; if we can prove the value is less than $750, we can potentially reduce a Grand Theft felony to a Petit Theft misdemeanor.
- Identify Procedural Errors: Our team knows where law enforcement routinely fails. We identify if evidence was collected via an illegal search or if your constitutional rights were violated during questioning.
- Negotiate Diversionary Alternatives: For many clients, we can negotiate for a Pre-Trial Diversion (PTD) Program. Successfully completing these requirements can result in your charges being completely dropped and your record remaining clear.
The Prosecution
Under Florida Statute § 812.014, a person commits theft if they knowingly obtain or use the property of another with the intent to temporarily or permanently deprive them of the right to the property. The severity of your charge is determined by the value or the specific type of property stolen.
To achieve a conviction, the State of Florida must prove three elements beyond a reasonable doubt:
- You knowingly obtained or used the property of another;
- You intended to temporarily or permanently deprive the owner of their property; and
- The property had a specific market value.
Our legal team at the Law Office of Robert A. Norgard meticulously attacks these elements. We utilize proven defenses such as Mistake of Fact (you believed you had a right to the property), Good Faith Possession, or Mistaken Identity. If the prosecution fails to prove even one of these elements, the law requires a finding of Not Guilty.
Board-Certified in Criminal Trial Law
Unmatched Trial Experience: Attorney Robert A. Norgard has defended Florida residents for over 40 years and has been Board-Certified in Criminal Trial Law since 1995. This elite certification is held by less than 1% of Florida attorneys.
If you are facing an investigation or arrest for theft in Bartow, Lakeland, Winter Haven, Auburndale, Haines City, or anywhere in Polk County, do not wait. Your first and most important step is to secure a dedicated, knowledgeable defense.
Call 863-354-0508 today to schedule your Free Consultation with Lakeland petit theft and grand theft defense attorney, Robert A. Norgard.
What Our Clients Say
"Experience, when experience counts."
